Could patients benefit from using exoskeletons?

A spin-off company is hoping to develop robotic exoskeletons that can improve the quality of life for patients in need of improved mobility.

IUVO, a spin-off company of The BioRobotics Institute in the field of wearable technologies, has received a joint investment from automation company Comau and orthopaedics company Össur.

IUVO is hoping to create wearable, intelligent and active tools that improve both patients’ and workers quality of life. The spin-off was founded in 2015 by a team of post-doctorates, professors and researchers.

The joint venture is aiming to progress and evolve human-machine collaboration within the biomedical, manufacturing and consumer sectors. IUVO is working within the Comau HUMANufacturing Innovation Center in Pontedera, Italy.

Mauro Fenzi, CEO of Comau, said: “This joint venture represents a key step toward the creation of wearable robotic exoskeletons that can enhance human mobility and quality of life. By uniting the know-how and enabling technologies of the various partners, we are in a unique position to extend the use of robotics beyond manufacturing and toward a truly progressive global reality. I believe the differentiating factor of a project like IUVO is the combination of Comau’s automation skills and Össur’s extensive experience in bionics and bracing to enable the production of products, such as the exoskeletons, and to be able to demonstrate the benefits of robotics”.

Nicola Vitiello, leader of the Wearable Robotics Laboratory of The BioRobotics Institute and founding partner of IUVO, said: “The complementary nature of cutting-edge research in science and technology allows us to create unique products that can enhance the way people move and perform. Furthermore, these devices represent a long-term, sustainable answer to help increase the level of independence of those in need and, more generally, foster innovative life styles that promote our wellbeing.”